ureteric

Ureteric refers to anything related to the ureter, the paired muscular tubes that transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder. In medical usage, the term describes anatomy, disorders, and procedures involving the ureter.

Anatomy and function: Each ureter originates at the renal pelvis and descends retroperitoneally along the psoas to reach the bladder, where it enters at the posterolateral wall through the ureterovesical junction. The ureter uses peristaltic waves to move urine and is supported by surrounding tissues to resist reflux.

Development: The ureter arises from the ureteric bud, an outgrowth of the metanephric duct, which induces the developing kidney. The ureter then differentiates into a smooth-muscle conduit with an inner epithelium, and congenital variations such as duplicated ureters or ureteropelvic junction obstruction may occur.

Clinical significance: Ureteric disease includes stones causing colicky pain, obstruction with hydronephrosis, and ureteric strictures. Vesicoureteral reflux involves abnormal backflow at the ureteric orifice into the ureter or kidney. Evaluation relies on ultrasound or CT urography; management ranges from observation to endoscopic stone treatment, stent placement, or reconstructive surgery as needed.